How is bowel incontinence diagnosed?
Endosonography, also called rectal ultrasound, makes it possible to view the anal sphincter muscles and precisely identify abnormalities. Ultrasound can be used to locate the exact position of a tear in a muscle, even before bowel incontinence becomes a problem. Other procedures to diagnose bowel incontinence that may be used include: • Flexible sigmoidoscopy. By using a thin, flexible lighted tube called an endoscope, your doctor can examine the lining of the final third of the lower digestive tract. • Manometry. This test measures the pressure and strength of the anal muscles and can determine if they are too weak to function properly. • Nerve studies. These tests check for nerve damage to determine if the nerves that communicate with the sphincter muscles are working properly. • MRI. Magnetic resonance imaging can help identify areas of weakness in the sphincter muscles. How Is Bowel Incontinence Treated? Once the underlying cause of bowel incontinence has been identified, most peop
